Clin Colon Rectal Surg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1807727
Review Article

Anastomotic Leak Following Colorectal Surgery

Olivia Ziegler
1   Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
,
Audrey S. Kulaylat
2   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
› Author Affiliations
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Abstract

Anastomotic leak (AL) following colorectal surgery is a devastating complication. It is associated with high mortality rates, increased length of stay, and—in the setting of cancer—higher disease recurrence and worse overall survival. Further, it is associated with significantly increased costs, both for the acute hospital setting and the higher-intensity postdischarge care requirements these patients often experience. Identification of factors that prognosticate AL is important, as it may enable earlier detection and even patient optimization prior to surgery.



Publication History

Article published online:
29 April 2025

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